Why Should I Vote?

Yesterday, while doing a daily internet scan of articles related to my work, I came across this short and interesting article entitled “Rabbi, Why Should I Vote?” You can find it at this link. I’m neither a rabbi nor am I endorsing the article. But, in the midst of the escalating polarization in our society, the barrage of attack ads against candidates by their opposition and the general anger that seems to reflect itself in every political conversation, the core of this article resonated with me, as all of us, as people of faith, in the United States, ask ourselves “Why Should I Vote?”

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, one of Orthodox Judaism’s foremost religious authorities, was asked, in 1943, whether Jews have an obligation to vote in American elections. To this question, he answered:

On reaching the shores of the United States, Jews have found a safe haven. The rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights have allowed us the freedom to practice our religion without interference and to live in this republic in safety.

A fundamental principle of Judaism is hakaras hatov – recognizing benefits afforded us and giving expression to our appreciation. Therefore, it is incumbent on each Jewish citizen to participate in the democratic system which guards the freedoms we enjoy. The most fundamental responsibility incumbent on each individual is to register and vote.

Therefore, I urge all members of the Jewish community to fulfill their obligations by registering as soon as possible, and by voting. By this, we can express our appreciation and contribute to the continued security of our community.

The debates are over, the candidates are conducting their final days of campaign speeches and rallies and early election days have begun. Many would argue that those that are still undecided are a razor-thin slice of the electorate. I will be voting this afternoon, just hours after this article is posted.

Every Jew has an obligation to vote – in the spirit of this response from Rabbi Feinstein. And, I would argue that every American of faith has an obligation to vote – also in the spirit of this response and regardless of your belief system.

We live in an amazing country – despite its flaws and all of the issues which are currently the subject of pronounced debate and argument. But only, in a few countries of the world, can these arguments, in fact, take place. So, let all of us recognize the benefits that have been afforded us and help elect the next President of the United States and our other leaders. That is truly how we can express our appreciation to be citizens of these United States.